A structured, classic Saint-Estèphe now entering its prime, the 1995 Montrose offers layers of cassis, truffle, cedar, and cigar box over firm yet refined tannins. With a blend dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, it delivers power, elegance, and graceful aging potential. Drink now through 2035.

The Wine Advocate | RP 94
Published: Dec 21, 2023
Drink: 2020-2035

As I wrote last year, the 1995 Montrose is beginning to drink brilliantly, and this most recent example only confirms that. Wafting from the glass with a classic bouquet of red and black currant fruit, rich loamy soil, cigar box and black truffles, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and layered, with terrific concentration, ripe tannins and lively acids. The 1995 took its time, but this rather structured, powerful vintage of Montrose is now beginning to soften.

Decanter | D 93
Published: Mar 30, 2017
Drink: 2017-2035

Here we start to see the slightly austere side of Montrose, and how this helps it to age so gracefully. Exceptionally young at 22 years old, still tightly-structured and richly-scented. Cassis, truffles, cedar, burnished oak, and tobacco are set by lovely placement of tannins that are still fairly bullish and young. Classical and effortless. 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot.

Vivino | Vivino 4.3

It has a fine and elegant robe with a beautifully intense and dark garnet. The nose, powerful and harmonious, is pleasantly woody. Aerated, it reveals lightly toasted aromas, followed with hints of ripe fruits and liquorice. The palate is full and soft with tight tannins and a light sweetness. The finish is long and harmonious.

Chateau-montrose.com

Tasting Notes:
The 1995 vintage presents a dense, slightly evolved brown hue. The nose reveals aromas of leather, truffle, violet, and earthy undertones. On the palate, it offers complexity with notes of leather and mocha, leading to an elegant structure characterized by a neat and straight attack, a light mid-palate, and a beautiful finish supported by tight tannins.

Technical Specs

Alcohol: 12.5%
Closure: Natural Cork
Harvest: 1995
Oak: French oak
Varietals: 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot
Vineyard Area: 95 ha
Soil: Deep gravel over clay subsoil
Harvest: Hand-picked, 13–26 September
Vinification: Traditional Bordeaux vinification with careful extraction and extended maceration
Region: Saint-Estèphe AOC, Saint-Estèphe, Bordeaux, France
Classification: 2nd Grand Cru Classé 1855

Serving Temperature: 16–18°C
Decanting: 20–30 minutes, mainly to remove sediment
Food Pairing: Roast beef, lamb, venison, duck, braised meats, truffle, wild mushrooms and mature hard cheeses